Nationals OF Harper leaves game with sore ankle

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Bryce Harper left the Washington Nationals' 4-0 loss against the Atlanta Braves because of a bruised left ankle.

X-rays were negative, according to manager Davey Johnson, who was uncertain if the 19-year-old outfielder would play in the finale of Saturday's day-night doubleheader.

Harper fouled a bunt off his ankle in the bottom of the first inning of the opener. Limping and doubled over in pain for several moments, he completed the at-bat by striking out.

The first time All-Star returned to center field in the second inning, but Roger Bernadina replaced him on defense for the top of the third with the Nationals trailing 1-0.

Harper is batting .269 with eight home runs and 26 RBIs in 71 games this season.

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